Cajun Steak Tips in Cheesy Rigatoni Parmesan Sauce Recipe
This Cajun Steak Tips in Cheesy Rigatoni Parmesan Sauce recipe combines tender, spicy steak bites with creamy, cheesy pasta to create a comforting, flavorful dish perfect for a hearty dinner.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scale
Steak and Seasoning
- 1 lb steak tips (sirloin or ribeye), cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning (plus more to taste)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Pasta
- 10 oz rigatoni pasta
Sauce
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 3/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella or Fontina cheese (optional)
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tbsp butter (divided)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
- Cook the Rigatoni: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the rigatoni pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 9-11 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- Season the Steak Tips: Toss the bite-sized steak pieces with 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning, salt, and black pepper until evenly coated.
- Sear the Steak Tips: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil. Add the seasoned steak tips and sear for about 3-4 minutes per side or until cooked to your desired doneness. Remove the steak from the skillet and set aside.
- Prepare the Sauce Base: In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium. Add 1 tablespoon butter and minced garlic. Sauté the garlic until fragrant but not browned, about 1 minute.
- Create the Creamy Parmesan Sauce: Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and continue cooking until the sauce thickens slightly, about 3-5 minutes. Season with additional salt, pepper, and Cajun seasoning to taste.
- Combine Pasta and Steak with Sauce: Add the cooked rigatoni and seared steak tips back into the skillet. Stir to coat everything evenly with the sauce. If using, sprinkle the shredded mozzarella or Fontina cheese on top and gently stir or allow to melt in the warm sauce.
- Finish and Serve: Add the remaining 1 tablespoon butter and stir to incorporate for extra richness and gloss. Serve the Cajun steak tips and creamy rigatoni hot, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese or fresh herbs if desired.
Notes
- Use sirloin or ribeye steak tips for the best flavor and tenderness.
- Adjust Cajun seasoning to your spice preference.
- For a lighter sauce, substitute half-and-half for heavy cream, though it may be less rich and thick.
- Adding mozzarella or Fontina cheese is optional but adds a lovely gooey texture.
- Be careful not to overcook the steak to keep it tender and juicy.
- If you want extra garlic flavor, garnish with fresh chopped parsley mixed with minced garlic.
Keywords: Cajun steak tips, cheesy rigatoni, Parmesan sauce, creamy pasta, easy dinner
